Michigan football ultimately said nein to opening next season in Germany.
The program announced Wednesday that the 2026 season opener against Western Michigan will take place in Ann Arbor as originally scheduled. Michigan had announced July 25 that it was in “advanced discussions” to play the game in Frankfurt, Germany. Instead, the Aug. 29 game will be held at Michigan Stadium.
“We did a thorough and exhaustive evaluation in relation to playing an international game,” Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel said in a statement. “Based on the analysis of all the factors, we felt it was best to keep the game in Ann Arbor as it was originally scheduled for the 2026 season.
“I want to thank Eintracht Frankfurt and their Stadium Management company for all the work that they did in partnership with our staff to try to make this game a possibility.”
Entracht Frankfurt is the professional soccer team that plays at Deutsche Bank Park, where Michigan was considering playing Western Michigan.
Manuel had previously said that various details, including important financial elements, were being mulled by the athletic department before a final decision was made. Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore is suspended for next year’s opener.
The Wolverines have never played a football game outside of North America.
“We have fans and alumni around the globe, and many have expressed excitement about attending a game on foreign soil,” Manuel said in Wednesday’s statement. “We remain open to exploring the right opportunities for our teams to play internationally.”
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